Characterization and immunofluorescence localization analysis of carboxypeptidase A in molt fluid of silkworm / 生物工程学报

Molting is an important physiological phenomenon of many metamorphosis insects, during which the old and new epidermis are separated by enzymes present in the molting fluid. Various proteomic studies have discovered the presence of Bombyx mori carboxypeptidase A (Bm-CPA) in the molting fluid of silkworm, but its function remains unclear. In order to better understand the role of Bm-CPA in the molting process of silkworm, Bm-CPA was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, antibody preparation, immunofluorescence staining, and expression in Pichia pastoris. The results showed that Bm-CPA had a conserved M14 zinc carboxypeptidase domain and glycosylation site. Its expression was regulated by ecdysone 20E, and large expression was observed in the epidermis of the upper cluster stage. Immunofluorescence staining showed that Bm-CPA was enriched in the epidermis during the molting stage, and the inhibitor of Bm-CPA led to the larval death due to the inability to molt. We also successfully obtained a large number of recombinant Bm-CPA proteins by Pichia pastoris expression in vitro. These results may facilitate further understanding the molting development process of silkworm.

What is the optimal fertigation start time and frequency in lettuce seedlings?

Although lettuce is one of the most important vegetable crops cultivated in Brazil, producers conduct seedling production empirically, as there are no published reports on the optimal start time and management strategy for seedling fertigation. The present aimed to assess the influence of fertigation management on the growth, physiological aspects and nutritional status of lettuce seedlings and to determine the optimal fertigation start time and frequency. Two experiments were conducted, each with a randomized block design and six repetitions. The first consisted of six treatments, namely six fertigation start times at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 d after emergence (DAE), and the second consisted of five treatments, representing different application frequencies at 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 d intervals. The assessment of nutrient accumulation levels and biometric and physiological characteristics of the seedlings were performed after transplanting. Fertigation start times significantly affected 14 of the 18 variables assessed, particularly the number of leaves, shoot dry weight, leaf area, initial chlorophyll fluorescence, and P, K, Ca, Mg, and S accumulation. The best results for ten variables were obtained when fertigation began at emergence, with values 17.77 - 35.63% higher than those at fertigation onset at 15 DAE. Application frequency only influenced chlorophyll content and N, P, K, and S accumulation, with optimal results obtained at 3 - 6 d intervals. Beginning fertigation at plant emergence favors dry weight production, nutrition and photosynthesis and shortens the production time of lettuce seedlings. The optimal start time for lettuce seedling fertigation is at emergence, with application performed every 6 d.

Contribution of the carbonized rice husk added to the substrate in the production of vegetable seedlings

The carbonized rice husk (CRH) is an agro-industrial residue with great potential for use in mixtures with other substrates for the production of vegetable seedlings. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of CRH to the commercial substrate for the production of greenhouse seedlings. The evaluated vegetables were lettuce, broccoli and mustard, cultivated in polystyrene foam (Styrofoam®) trays. Five treatments were evaluated: 100% of the commercial substrate (CS); 25% of CRH + 75% of CS; 50% of CRH + 50% of CS; 75% CRH + 25% CS; and 100% CRH, in a completely randomized design with twelve replicates. The substrates were evaluated for their physical and chemical characteristics. The morphometric evaluations were: number of leaves per plant, plant height, shoot fresh matter yield, root length, and shoot and root dry matter yield. The data were submitted to regression analysis, and the homogeneity of the variance between the experiments was confirmed by the Cochran test. With the addition of CRH to the substrate, there was an increase in total porosity and P content and a reduction in density, water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, and N, K, S, Ca and Mg contents. The carbonized rice husk added to the commercial substrate is a viable alternative for the production of lettuce, broccoli and mustard seedlings. The quality of the vegetable seedlings was higher when there was a 25% CRH + 75% CS mixture.

Amino acid compounds released by the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii during ecdysis: a factor attracting cannibalistic behaviour? / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Ecdysis is a common phenomenon that happens throughout the life phase of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. It is vital to better understand the correlation between cannibalism and biochemical compound that exists during the moulting process. The objective of the present study was to determine the amino acid profile released by M. rosenbergii during the ecdysis process that promotes cannibalism. To accomplish this, changes in amino acid levels (total amino acid (TAA) and free amino acid (FAA)) of tissue muscle, exoskeleton, and sample water of culture medium from the moulting (E-stage) and non-moulting (C-stage) prawns were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Comparison study revealed that among the TAA compounds, proline and sarcosine of tissues from moulting prawn were found at the highest levels. The level of FAA from water that contains moulting prawns (E-stage) was dominated by tryptophan and proline. Significant values obtained in the present study suggested that these amino acid compounds act as a chemical cue to promote cannibalism in M. rosenbergii during ecdysis. The knowledge of compositions and compounds that were released during the moulting process should be helpful for better understanding of the mechanism and chemical cues that play roles on triggering cannibalism, and also for future dietary manipulation to improve feeding efficiencies and feeding management, which indirectly impacts productivity and profitability.

Compared activity of agonist molecules towards ecdysone receptor in insect cell-based screening system / Comparação da atividade de moléculas agonistas em relação ao receptor de ecdisona em um sistema de triagem baseado em linhagens celulares de insetos

The ecdysone receptor, naturally activated by steroidal hormones, is a key protein for molting and reproduction processes of insects. Artificial activation of such receptor by specific pesticides induces an anomalous process of ecdysis, causing death of insects by desiccation and starvation. In this paper, we established a protocol for screening agonistic molecules towards ecdysone receptor of insect cells line S2 (Diptera) and Sf9 (Lepidoptera), transfected with the reporter plasmid ere.b.act.luc. Therefore, we set dose-response curves with the ecdysteroid 20-hydroxyecdysone, the phytoecdysteroid ponasterone-A, and tebufenozide, a pesticide belonging to the class of diacylhydrazines. In both cell lines, the median effective concentration values on reporter gene induction (EC50) of ponasterone-A was the smallest, meaning the most active agonist molecule. In Sf9 cells, tebufenozide had as smaller EC50 than 20-hydroxyecdysone, indicating the high agonistic capability and lepidopteran specificity. The protocol established in this study can be useful for a quick screening and rational research of site-specific pesticides.(AU)

O receptor de ecdisona, naturalmente ativado por hormônios esteroidais, é uma proteína-chave nos processos de muda e reprodução de insetos. A ativação artificial desse receptor por meio de pesticidas específicos induz um processo de ecdise anômala, levando o inseto à morte por dessecação e inanição. Neste trabalho, foi estabelecido um protocolo para a triagem de moléculas agonistas em relação ao receptor de ecdisona nas linhagens celulares responsivas S2 (Diptera) e Sf9 (Lepidoptera), transfectadas com o plasmídeo repórter ere.b.act.luc. Para tanto, curvas de dose-resposta foram estabelecidas com o ecdisteroide 20-hidroxiecdisona, o fitoecdisteroide ponasterona-A e tebufenozida, um pesticida pertencente à classe das diacilhidrazinas. Em ambas linhagens celulares, os valores médios de concentração efetiva para indução gênica (EC50) ponasterona-A foram menores, significando que este é o agonista mais potente. Em células Sf9, a tebufenozida apresentou EC50 menor que a 20-hidroxiecdisona, indicando uma alta atividade agonista e especificidade deste inseticida a lepidópteros. O protocolo estabelecido neste trabalho pode ser utilizado para uma rápida triagem e busca racional de pesticidas de alvo bioquímico específico.(AU)

Ecdysis-related pleiotropic neuropeptides expression during Anopheles albimanus development / Expresión de neuropéptidos pleiotrópicos asociados con ecdisis durante el desarrollo del mosquito Anopheles albimanus

Abstract: Objective: To analyze the transcription pattern of neuropeptides in the ontogeny of a malaria vector, the mosquito Anopheles albimanus. Materials and methods: The transcription pattern of Crustacean CardioActive peptide (CCAP), corazonin, Ecdysis Triggering Hormone (ETH), allatostatin-A, orcokinin, Insulin Like Peptide 2 (ILP2), Insulin Like Peptide 5 (ILP5) and bursicon was evaluated using qPCR on larvae (1st - 4th instar), pupae and adult mosquitoes. Results: Unlike in other insects, transcripts of CCAP (70.8%), ETH (60.2%) and corazonin (76.5%) were expressed in 4th instar larvae, probably because these three neuropeptides are associated with the beginning of ecdysis. The neuropeptide ILP2 showed higher transcription levels in other stages and orcokinin decreased during the development of the mosquito. Conclusion: The CCAP, corazonin and ETH neuropeptides are potential targets for the design of control strategies aimed at disrupting An. albiamnus larval development.

Resumen: Objetivo: Describir la expresión de neuropéptidos durante la ontogenia del mosquito vector de la malaria Anopheles albimanus. Material y métodos: Se midió la expresión de CCAP, corazonina, ETH, allatostatina, orcokinina, ILP2, ILP5 y bursicon en larvas de primer (2mm), segundo (4mm), tercer (5mm) y cuarto (6mm) estadio, pupas y mosquitos adultos, mediante qPCR. Resultados. A diferencia de otros insectos en donde, CCAP, corazonina y ETH se expresan principalmente en estadios pupales, en An. albimanus se expresaron mayoritariamente en larvas de cuarto estadio, CCAP tuvo 70.8% de expresión relativa, corazonina 76.5% y ETH 60.2%. ILP2 fue el neuropéptido que más se expresó en el primer, segundo y tercer estadio y orcokinina disminuyó durante el desarrollo del mosquito. Conclusión. Los péptidos estudiados se expresaron en todos los estadios de desarrollo del mosquito. Sin embargo, su expresión varió en cada uno de ellos. Los neuropéptidos CCAP, corazonina y ETH, que son esenciales para la transformación de lavas a pupas, pueden ser blancos potenciales para el diseño de estrategias de control dirigidas a interrumpir el desarrollo larvario de An. albimanus.

Cotton productivity enhanced through transplanting and early sowing / Aumento da produtividade do algodão por meio de transplante de mudas e semeadura precoce

Due to high temperatures in arid regions, cotton crop emergence and early establishment ofseedlings are adversely affected. Field studies were undertaken to quantify the effects of transplantation ofcotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) seedlings during the early part of the growing season (March) and cropseason (May) for potential realization of cotton productivity under the harsh weather of the southern partof Punjab province, Pakistan. Treatments, consisting of (a) two planting dates (March and May), and (b)two sowing methods (transplanting of seedlings and direct seeding), were arranged in a randomizedcomplete-block design with four replications. Results showed that transplanting seedlings improved theproductivity of cotton by 14.2% over direct seeding. Productivity was also increased substantially (34.8%)by planting during March over May sowing. The practice of planting cotton by transplanting seedlings andearly sowing could be successfully adapted in areas where high temperatures coincide with the Mayplanting and peak blooming periods in different cotton growing areas.

Altas temperaturas, em torno de 48ºC, prevalecem durante os meses de maio na parte do sul da província de Punjab, no Paquistão. A esta temperatura a emergência da colheita de algodão e o estabelecimento precoce da plântula são adversamente afetados. Estudos de campo foram realizados paraquantificar os efeitos do transplante de mudas de algodão (Gossypium hirsutum L.) durante a primeira parteda estação de crescimento (março) e da safra (maio) para a realização potencial da produtividade do algodãosob condições adversas da parte sul do Punjab Província-Paquistão. Os tratamentos, consistindo em(a) duas datas de plantio (março e maio), e (b) dois métodos de semeadura (transplante de mudas e semeadura direta), foram dispostos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Os resultados mostraram que o transplante de mudas melhorou a produtividade do algodão em 14,2% em relação à semeadura direta. A produtividade também aumentou substancialmente (34,8%) com o plantioem março sobre a semeadura de maio. A prática de plantio de algodão por transplante de mudas e sua semeadura precoce poderia ser adaptada com sucesso, onde a alta temperatura coincide com o tempo de plantio durante o mês de maio e períodos de florescimento máximo em diferentes áreas de cultivo de algodão.

Parámetros biológicos de Meccus phyllosomus phyllosomus (Burmeister) 1835, de Triatoma recurva (Stål) 1868 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) y de sus híbridos de laboratorio / Biological parameters of Meccus phyllosomus phyllosomus (Burmeister), 1835, Triatoma recurva (Stål), 1868 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) and their laboratory hybrids

Resumen Introducción. Los híbridos de especies y subespecies de triatominos mexicanos exhiben características biológicas y de comportamiento sobresalientes comparadas con las de sus parentales, específicamente su vigor híbrido, lo cual puede incrementar el riesgo de transmisión de Trypanosoma cruzi a sus huéspedes humanos y animales. Objetivo. Describir y comparar los valores de los parámetros biológicos relacionados con el ciclo de vida de Triatoma recurva, de Meccus phyllosomus phyllosomus y de sus híbridos de laboratorio, para estimar su riesgo como transmisores de T. cruzi a las poblaciones humanas. Materiales y métodos. Se entrecruzaron ejemplares de T. recurva y de M. p. phyllosomus y se obtuvo una cohorte híbrida. Las tres cohortes se mantuvieron bajo condiciones similares de laboratorio. En las tres se compararon los datos de sus ciclos de vida, el número de alimentaciones necesarias para mudar, el porcentaje de mortalidad, el de eclosión de huevos y la fecundidad de las hembras. Resultados. La cohorte híbrida tuvo el menor tiempo promedio entre el primer instar o estadio y el adulto (136,6 ± 17,5 días). El número de alimentaciones para cambiar de instar (13,4 ± 1,7; 15,6 ± 5,2) fue mayor en la cohorte híbrida y en la de T. recurva. La cohorte híbrida registró la menor mortalidad (29 %) y el mayor porcentaje (70 %) de hembras al final del ciclo biológico. La fecundidad por hembra por día (rango: 1,1 ± 0,6 -1,6 ± 0,7) fue similar entre las poblaciones. El porcentaje de eclosión de huevos fue superior a 70 % en la cohorte híbrida y en la de M. p. phyllosomus. Conclusión. La cohorte híbrida presentó algunas características biológicas que implicarían un mayor poder transmisor de T. cruzi que el de sus grupos parentales.

Abstract Introduction: Hybrids from species and subspecies of Mexican triatomines have shown outstanding biological and behavioral characteristics as compared with their parental groups. This could lead to an increasing risk of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi to human and animal reservoir hosts. Objective: To describe and compare biological parameters related to the life cycle of Triatoma recurva, Meccus phyllosomus phyllosomus and their laboratory hybrids and estimate their risk as transmitters of T. cruzi to humans. Materials and methods: We kept a cohort of each one of the three groups (T. recurva, M. p. phyllosomus and their hybrids) under similar laboratory conditions and then compared them to record the data related to their life cycles, number of blood meals to molt, mortality rates, egg eclosion rates and female fecundity. Results: The hybrid cohort showed the lowest mean time from first-instar nymph to adult (136.6 ± 17.5 days). The number of blood meals from molt to next instar (13.4 ± 1.7; 15.6 ± 5.2) was higher in the hybrid and T. recurva cohorts. The hybrid cohort showed the lowest mortality rate (29.5%) and the highest rate (70%) of adult females at the end of the biological cycle. Fecundity per day per female (range: 1.1 ± 0.6- 1.6 ± 0.7 eggs) was similar in the three cohorts. Egg hatching rate was higher than 70% in both hybrid and M. p. phyllosomus cohorts. Conclusion: The hybrid cohort showed some outstanding biological characteristics, which would entail a higher risk of transmission of T. cruzi to hosts than their parentals.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis: Scanning Electron Microscopic Observations on the Cuticle of Moulting Larvae

Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a parasitic nematode that needs to develop in different hosts in different larval stages. Freshwater snails, such as Pomacea canaliculata, are the intermediate host, and rats are the definitive host. Periodic shedding of the cuticle (moulting) is an important biological process for the survival and development of the parasite in the intermediate and definitive hosts. However, there are few studies on the cuticle alterations between different stages of this parasite. In this study, we observed the ultrastructural appearance and changes of the cuticle of the 2nd/3rd stage larvae (L2/L3) and the 3rd/4th stage larvae (L3/L4) using a scanning electron microscope. We also first divided L2/L3 into late L2 and early L3. The late L2 lacked alae, but possessed a pull-chain-like fissure. Irregular alignment of spherical particles on the cuticle were noted compared to the L3. Alae appeared in the early L3. The old cuticle turned into a thin film-like structure which adhered to the new cuticle, and spherical particles were seen regularly arranged on the surface of this structure. Regular rectangular cavities were found on the surface of L3/L4. The caudal structure of L3/L4 was much larger than that of L3, but caudal inflation, such as seen in L4, was not observed. These results are the first to reveal the ultrastructural changes of the cuticle of A. cantonensis before and after moulting of L2/L3 and L3/L4.

Semiaphis dauci (Fabricius) (Insecta, Hemiptera, Aphididae) ­ formal record of occurrence on arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancr) (Apiaceae) in Brazil, morphological characterization, description of damages and arthropods associated to the culture / Semiaphis dauci (Fabricius) (Insecta, Hemiptera, Aphididae) ­ registro formal de ocorrência em mandioquinha­salsa (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancr) (Apiaceae) no Brasil, caracterização morfológica, descrição dos danos e artrópodes relacionados à cultura

This paper reports formally the occurrence and describes the damages by Semiaphis dauci (Fabricius, 1775) (Insecta, Hemiptera, Aphididae, Aphidinae, Macrosiphini) on arracacha (Arracaciaxanthorrhiza Bancr.) (Apiaceae) in Brazil. The infestation was initially noted on April/2002 at Núcleo de Produção de Mudas, Departamento de Sementes Mudas e Matrizes, Coordenadoria de Assistência Técnica Integral, Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento, São Bento do Sapucaí, State of São Paulo. Posteriorly the occurrence was detected in other parts of the municipality of São Bento do Sapucaí such as Serrano, Paiol Grande and Cantagalo, being the incidence higher in localities at lower altitudes. The colonies, with large number of individuals, were settled on both sides of the leaves and also hidden under petiole, but with lower number of specimens. The adult plants were underdeveloped and the growing of aphid colonies induced the blossoming. In the seedlings the symptoms were severer with reduction in the development and death of plants. When the colonies were placed in the dorsal side of the leaves, there was a tendency to wrinkling and rolling to upper side that was used as shelter by the aphids. Morphological characterization, illustrations and notes on biology of S. dauci and a survey of the Arthropoda related with A. xanthorrhiza are also presented.

Este trabalho efetua o registro formal de ocorrência e descreve os danos de Semiaphis dauci (Fabricius, 1775) (Insecta, Hemiptera, Aphididae, Aphidinae, Macrosiphini) em cultura de mandioquinha-salsa (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancr.) (Apiaceae) no Brasil. A infestação foi observada, inicialmente, em abril/2002, no Núcleo de Produção de Mudas, Departamento de Sementes Mudas e Matrizes, Coordenadoria de Assistência Técnica Integral, Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento, São Bento do Sapucaí, SP. Posteriormente, a ocorrência foi detectada em outras localidades do município como Serrano, Paiol Grande e Cantagalo sendo que a incidência foi maior nas áreas de menor altitude. As colônias estavam localizadas em ambas as faces das folhas, e em menor número no pecíolo escondidas na bainha da folha. As plantas adultas apresentavam subdesenvolvimento e o aumento das colônias induzia o florescimento. Nas mudas os sintomas foram mais severos com redução no desenvolvimento e posterior morte das plantas. Quando havia formação de colônias na superfície superior das folhas, havia tendência de encarquilhamento e enrolamento para cima, servindo de abrigo para os pulgões. Caracterização morfológica, ilustrações, notas sobre a biologia de S. dauci e levantamento dos Arthropoda relacionados com A. xanthorrhiza também são apresentados.

Developmental and reproductive patterns of Triatoma brasiliensis infected with Trypanosoma cruzi under laboratory conditions

The aim of this work was to study the interaction between Trypanosoma cruzi-1 and Triatoma brasiliensis. A group of 1st instar nymphs was initially fed on T. cruzi-infected mice and a control group was fed on uninfected mice. From the second feeding onwards, both groups were otherwise fed on non-infected mice. The resulting adults were grouped in pairs: infected male/uninfected female, uninfected male/infected female, infected male and female and uninfected male/uninfected female. The infection affected only the 1st instar nymphs, which took significantly more time to reach the 2nd instar than uninfected nymphs. The differences in the molting time between the infected and uninfected nymphs from the 2nd to the 5th instars were not statistically significant. Both groups presented similar rates of nymphal mortality and reproductive performance was not significantly affected by infection in any of the treatments.

Terapia fotodinámica en pacientes con acné inflamatorio facial leve a moderadamente severo: estudio abierto en 30 pacientes chilenos / Photodynamic therapy in patients with inflammatory mild to moderate-severe acne

Introducción: La terapia fotodinámica es un procedimiento útil en el manejo del acné inflamatorio. Diversos esquemas terapéuticos se han usado. Objetivo: Demostrar eficacia y tolerancia de una sesión de TFD-MAL en el manejo del acné inflamatorio. Métodos: Una sesión de TFD-MAL y luz roja por cuatro minutos e incubación de tres horas fue realizada en 30 pacientes portadores de acné inflamatorio, leve, o moderadamente severo. Resultados: Resolución clínica de las lesiones o las seis semanas fue considerada buena (mejoría > 50%) en un 70% según evaluación médica y en un 66,6% según evaluación por el paciente. Se consignaron efectos adversos de eritema, descamación y rezumación leves dentro de las primeras 48 horas de la terapia en una gran proporción de pacientes. No se presentaron efectos adversos residuales o la semana 6. La encuesta de satisfacción relacionada a tolerancia y rapidez de acción demostró aceptación de la terapia en un 56% de los casos. Conclusión: La TFD-MAL con una sesión, incubación de tres horas y cuatro minutos de iluminación con luz roja constituye una buena alternativa terapéutica para el manejo del acné inflamatorio recalcitrante o en pacientes con contraindicaciones a terapias habituales.

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy is useful in the treatment of inflammatory acne. Several modalities have been used. Objective: To prove efficacy and tolerance of one session of PDT-MAL in the management of inflammatory acne. Methods: One session of PDT-MAL, for 4 minutes of red light, with an incubation period of 3 hours was performed in 30 patients with inflammatory mild to moderate-severe acne. Results: Clinical resolution at 6 weeks was considered good (resolution > 50%) in 70% of the patients under dermatologist evaluation and in 66.6% under patient evaluation. Adverse effects such as erythema, desquamation, oozoning were light and present in the first 48 hrs in o great proportion of cases. No adverse effects were seen at week 6. Satisfaction interview related to tolerance and speed of action showed good therapy acceptance in 56% of the patients. Conclusion: One session of PD T-MAL after 3 hours of incubation period and 4 minutes of red light is o good therapeutic option for the management of resistant inflammatory acne or to be used in patients with contraindication of common therapies for acne.

Response of Triatoma infestans to pour-on cypermethrin applied to chickens under laboratory conditions

This article reports the effects of a pour-on formulation of cypermethrin (6 percent active ingredient) applied to chickens exposed to Triatoma infestans, the main vector of Chagas disease in rural houses of the Gran Chaco Region of South America. This study was designed as a completely random experiment with three experimental groups and five replicates. Third instar nymphs were fed on chickens treated with 0, 1 and 2 cc of the formulation. Nymphs were allowed to feed on the chickens at different time intervals after the insecticide application. Third-instar nymphs fed on treated chickens showed a higher mortality, took less blood during feeding and had a lower moulting rate. The mortality rate was highest seven days after the insecticide solution application and blood intake was affected until 30 days after the application of the solution.

Influência do comportamento gregário nos processos de muda de Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806) (acari: ixodidae), em condições laboratoriais / Influence of aggregation on the molting process of Rhipicephalus sanguineus, (Latreille, 1806) (acari: ixodidae) under laboratory conditions

Objetivou-se com o experimento verificar a influência de diferentes agregações sobre os parâmetros relacionados ao processo de ecdise ninfal e de adulto de Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806). Foram utilizados como hospedeiros 10 coelhos domésticos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) primos-infestados. Foram analisados os períodos de pré-ecdise, de ecdise e de muda, o percentual e o ritmo de ecdise para todos os estágios estudados. Durante toda a fase não-parasitária, os carrapatos foram mantidos em condições controladas de umidade (80±5 por cento) e temperatura (27±1ºC). Um total de 1560 larvas ingurgitadas e de 1560 ninfas ingurgitadas foi utilizado. Os carrapatos foram divididos em seis grupos contendo um, cinco, dez, 20, 40 e 80 espécimes cada. Para cada um desses grupos foram realizadas dez repetições. Os processos de ecdise ninfal e de adulto foram acompanhados diariamente. Após a análise dos resultados, verificou-se que não houve relação entre as diferentes agregações e o percentual de ecdise em nenhuma etapa experimental. Em todos os outros parâmetros biológicos estudados, verificaram-se diferenças significativas (p<0,05). Os resultados obtidos sugerem que em elevadas agregações o processo de ecdise tende a ser mais rápido.

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the influence of different aggregations on the molting process of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806). Tick-naïve domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were used as experimental hosts for the parasitic phase. A total of 10 rabbits were used on the experiment. All tick free-living phases were kept in incubator at 27±1ºC, 80±5 percent relative humidity and scotophase. The periods of pre-molt, molt, percentage of ecdisis and molt rhythm of larvae and nymphs were studied. A total of 1560 engorged larvae and 1560 nymphs of R. sanguineus were divided in six groups of aggregations: 1, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 ticks with ten repetitions each one. The ecdises of nymphs and adults were daily observed. The percentage of ecdysis was the only parameter with no aggregations effects. All others parameters were statistically different (p<0,05). The results suggested that highest aggregations accelerate the molting process.

Molt and reproduction of the European green crab Carcinus maenas (Decapoda: Portunidae) in Patagonia, Argentina

The green crab Carcinus maenas, a decapod crustacean native to the northeastern Atlantic, has beeninvading distant areas, mainly for the last 25 years. This species is currently distributed along the coasts of thenortheastern Pacific, South Africa, Japan, South Australia, Tasmania, and western and eastern North America,among others. Here we provide information on the biology of the green crab occurring in the central area of SanJorge Gulf, Argentina, where it has been established since 1999-2000. Crabs of both sexes were hand-collectedbetween January 2004 and May 2005 from the intertidal zone and the upper sublittoral fringe. Sex, carapacewidth and molting stage were recorded. The reproductive status of males was based on the presence of sperm andspermatophores in testes and deferent ducts, and that of females on ovarian development and presence-absenceof eggs. Stages of embryonic development for ovigerous females were also recorded. The most importantphysiological events taking place during the annual cycle of the adult population were as follows: (1) male moltoccurred mainly in November and female molt between January and the beginning of March; (2) the reproductiveseason started in January, after a courtship in which the male, larger in size, holds the female until the molt,and spermatophores are ejaculated once the old exoskeleton is cast off; (3) females left the intertidal zone earlyand moved to lower littoral levels during fall and winter; (4) larvae appeared in September.

El cangrejo verde europeo es un crustáceo decápodo originario del Océano Atlántico nororiental, el cual principalmente en los últimos 25 años ha invadido, entre otros, el Pacífico nororiental, Sudáfrica, Japón, sur de Australia, Tasmania y ambas costas de América del Norte. Aquí resumimos las observaciones biológicas en el área central del Golfo San Jorge, Argentina, donde este cangrejo se ha instalado a partir de 1999 ó 2000. Recolectamos manualmente muestras de ambos sexos entre enero de 2004 y mayo de 2005 en el intermareal y la franja superior del sublitoral. La muda de los machos ocurre principalmente en noviembre y la de las hembras, entre enero y principios de marzo. La época reproductiva se inicia en enero, con un cortejo previo donde el macho, de mayor talla que la hembra, la retiene hasta la muda y, una vez desprendido el viejo exoesqueleto, se produce la eyaculación de los espermatóforos. Las hembras abandonan tempranamente el intermareal y migran a niveles inferiores del litoral durante el otoño e invierno, eclosionando las larvas en setiembre.

Growth, Shedding and Food Intake in Captive Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Serpentes: Boidae) / Crecimiento, Muda y Consumo de Alimento en Cautiverio de la Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Serpentes: Boidae)

The anaconda Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758) inhabits large hydrographic basins in tropical America and figures among the world's largest snakes, attaining a length of 12 m. This study analyzed the growth of three female anaconda siblings, with records from their birth in captivity up to around 14 months of age. The snakes were kept in a controlled environment with constant temperature and data related to biometry, feeding and skin shedding were recorded. At the end of these 445 days, the siblings had grown on average 2.6 times their initial length and increased their initial weight by 3830.lOg, incorporating about 43.5% of total food ingested to their body mass. They showed a total of 0.69 skin sheddings per month in that period, and did not exhibit significant differences in shedding intervals, nor in body growth (weight and length), when compared among themselves. Food was refused at times, coinciding with the days that preceded the ecdyses. Sheddings do not seem to be explained by feeding or growth, which suggests a relation to other endogenous factors. A more detailed study of this species is needed to better understand its growth to the adult phase and its hormonal levels during growth.

La anaconda Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758) se encuentra en una ampia área hidrográfica de América tropical y figura entre las más grandes serpientes del mundo, alcanzando una longitud de 12 metros. Este estudio analizó el crecimiento de tres anacondas hembras hermanas, con registros de su nacimiento en cautiverio hasta alrededor de 14 meses de edad. Las serpientes fueron mantenidas en un medio controlado con temperatura constante y se obtuvieron registros relacionados con su biometría, alimentación y mudas de piel. Al final de 445 días, las hermanas crecieron en promedio 2,6 veces su longitud inicial e incrementaron su peso inicial en 3810,1 g, incorporando a su masa corporal alrededor de 43,5% del alimento ingerido. Ellas tuvieron un total de 0,69 mudas de piel por mes en ese periodo y no hubo diferencias significativas en los intervalos de mudas, ni en el crecimiento corporal (peso y longitud), cuando comparadas entre ellas. La comida, a veces, fue rechazada coincidiendo con los días que precedían al cambio de piel. Las mudas de piel parecen no tener relación con la alimentación o crecimiento, lo cual sugiere que puede deberse a otros factores endógenos. Es necesario un estudio más detallado de esta especie para comprender mejor su crecimiento en la fase adulta y sus niveles hormonales durante el crecimiento.

Evaluación clínica del uso de un champú con clobetasol al 0, 05 por ciento en el tratamiento de la dermatitis seborreica moderada y severa del cuero cabelludo / Effectiveness and safety of a clobetasol shampoo formulation in patients with moderate and severe seborrheic dermatitis

La dermatitis seborreica del cuero cabelludo va desde una pitiriasis simple difusa a costras eritematoescamosas. La inflamación y el Pytirosporum ovale juegan un papel importante, por lo que los corticoides tópicos resultan en general exitosos. En el presente estudio se analizan la efectividad y seguridad del uso de clobetasol al 0,05 por ciento en formulación champú, aplicado durante 15 días, por 27 pacientes con dermatitis seborreica moderada o severa. La efectividad fue evaluada a través de analizar prurito, descamación y eritema. La seguridad se evaluó constatando irritación local, eritema y descamación en áreas vecinas. Esta formulación es altamente efectiva, con desaparición del prurito en 92 por ciento de los pacientes a los 15 días de tratamiento. Similar situación ocurre con la disminución del eritema. Respecto a seguridad, en un 4 por ciento de los pacientes advirtió irritación local.

Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp can manifest itself as anything from a simple diffused pityriasis to erythematous plaques. In all of these, the degree of inflammation and the presence os Pityrosporum ovale play an important role. We present an analysis of the effectiveness and safety of clobetasol shampoo formulation, applied daily for 15 minutes during 15 days, in 27 patients suffering from moderate or severe seborrheic dermatitis. Effectiveness was evaluated through analyzed pruritus, scaling, and erythema. Safety was evaluated by verifying irritation in the area of application, erythema and scaling of surrounding areas. Results were highly effective: pruritus disappeared in 92 percent of patients after 15 days, and erythema decreased in similar terms. Only 4 percent of patients presented local irritation.

Indução a muda forçada em Galinhas D’Angola (Numida meleagris) através do óxido de zinco / Induced molt in Guinea fowls (Numida meleagris) through the use of zinc oxide

Devido à escassez de estudos sobre muda forçada em aves alternativas de produção, este experimento teve o objetivo de realizar a muda forçada em galinhas D’Angola avaliando as perdas de peso corpóreo (PPC) que promovessem os melhores índices produtivos pós-muda. Com este propósito foram utilizadas 110 galinhas D’angola alojadas individualmente em gaiolas de poedeiras comerciais e, posteriormente, submetidas à muda forçada com 20000 ppm de óxido de zinco na ração. Estas passaram 21 dias recebendo ração e água ad libitum. Para análise da PPC relacionada à produtividade pós-muda foram utilizados 60 aves organizadas nos seguintes grupos: 24% (n=18); 26% (n=18); 28% (n=12) e acima de 30% (n=12). As outras 50 aves foram sacrificadas para o estudo do aparelho reprodutor, onde se verificou o tamanho e peso do oviduto e peso do ovário com PPC de 0% e sua regressão à medida que atingiam os níveis de PPC: 24%; 26%; 28% e acima de 30%. A média de retorno produtivo foi 60%, sendo o grupo com PPC de 24% com o melhor índice (100%), no entanto, este apresentou índice de produção insatisfatório juntamente com o grupo de PPC acima de 30%. A muda forçada em Galinhas D’Angola foi viável com índices de PPC em torno de 26% a 28% e inviáveis com níveis abaixo de 24% e acima de 30%. Em relação à regressão do aparelho reprodutor, os melhores resultados produtivos foram em torno de 65,15%, 90,49% e 94,27% para tamanho e peso do oviduto e peso do ovário, respectivamente.

Due to scarcity of studies on forced molt in alternative production birds, this experiment had the objective of performing an induced molt in Guinea Fowls observing the best body weight losses (BWL) that could promote good post-molt productions. With this purpose, 110 Guinea fowls were housed in individual commercial cages and were submitted to induced molt through the addition of zinc oxide in feed with the concentration of 20000 ppm during 21 days and received drinking water ad libitum. In the analysis of BWL related to post-molt productivity, 60 birds were organized in the groups, according to the percentage of BWL: 24% (n=18), 26% (n=18), 28% (n=12) and more than 30% (n=12). The other 50 birds were sacrificed for analyses of the reproductive organs, in which the oviduct size and weight of oviduct and ovary were measured with 0% of BWL and since then the regression of these organs were calculated to 24%, 26%,28% and more than 30% of BWL. The medium of post-molt return to production was 60% and the group of 24% of BWL presented the best productive return (100%), however this group presented an insufficient production rate as the birds with 30% of BWL. In this way, the induced molt in Guinea fowls was viable with BWL around 26 and 28% and unviable with less than 24% or more than 30%. In relation to regression of the reproductive organs the best productive results were 65,15%,90,49% and 94,27% to oviduct size and weight and ovary weight, respectively.

Three indigenous Thai medicinal plants for control of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus.

The potential larvicidal activity and insect growth regulator (IGR) properties of three selected indigenous medicinal Thai plants were tested against two species of mosquito with special reference to the late 3rd and early 4th instar larvae (L3 and L4, respectively). In case of larvicidal activity, Thevetia peruviana was the most potent, followed by Pueraria mirifica, and Butea superba was the least effective. In all cases, the late 3rd instar was more susceptible than the early 4th instar larvae, and the 48-hours exposure yielded more potent larvicidal activity than 24-hours exposure. However, at sublethal dosages, both P. mirifica and B. superba showed some dispersed effects interfering with ecdysis. A variety of toxic effects were observed and recorded in eight categories according to the stage of metamorphosis when death occurred. P. mirifica rendered the main deleterious effects in the pupa-adult period in both instar of Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus, whereas B. superba showed highest effect in black-pupa period of the late 3rd instar larval stage. The results were reversed for the early 4th instar larvae of both species of mosquito as the main effect appeared in the pupa-adult category. The overall results indicated that T. peruviana did not show any IGR properties; whereas, P. mirifica and B. superba seemed to exhibit the juvenile hormone type activity which resulted in abnormal death at various stages of development. B. superba was more promising than P. mirifica, and Ae. aegypti was about 2 times more susceptible than Cx. quinquefasciatus. In addition, L3 was always more susceptible than L4 with both mosquito species.